Alva Review-Courier -

Diabetes is a silent killer that results in too much sugar in the blood. There are four types: Type two is the condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. In type 1, the pancreas produces little or no insulin; prediabetes is high blood sugar, leading to diabetes; and gestational diabetes affects pregnant women.

Although diet is often blamed for the conditions, it is likely that a combination of genetics and environment are involved.

Type two is most common, affecting people over the age of 40. It results when the muscle, fat and liver cells become resistant to insulin. It can be traced to being overweight, obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of the disease.

How is it a silent killer? Complications accumulate slowly until permanent damage results. Be proactive in its diagnosis, especially if you have a family history. Peripheral neuropathy is a numbness and burning in your feet that is the result of blood vessels below the knees narrowing, causing infections that don’t heal.

Diabetes is responsible for many other health problems as well including eye disease, gum disease, kidney disease resulting in high blood pressure, bladder problems, skin disease, and heart conditions or stroke. Wow!

Since regular blood tests can find the disorder, it is important to have a health screening annually. Once diagnosed, diet can be a factor in limiting the progression of the disease. The prognosis can be good but if you have concerns, book an appointment with your health care provider. Death by chocolate is a possibility.